The Dal Lake is a famous lake in Srinagar, Kashmir, India. The lake itself is connected to a number of other lakes of the valley. It is well known for its shikaras or house boats. With the onset of militancy in the state, tourism dwindled in the 1990s; however after concerted efforts by the authorities, tourist inflow has slightly improved. During the winter season the lake sometimes freezes over. Water hyacinths and silt are the major problems affecting the lake. Most of the shore of the Lake is a boulevard, lined with Mughal-era gardens, parks, and high-end hotels.

Though a resident of India, and a travel enthusiast, I could visit Srinagar (capital of kashmir) only recently. Dal is not just a lake, it's a city. and when I say it, I mean it. with over 1500 houseboats, markets, factories, postoffice and countless shikaras (the smal boat you see in the background) many live permanently in the lake, and row their shikara to work.

This shot was taken, early morning, with resident birds going around looking for food, oblivious of the, now rare, terrorism and gunshots.

I hope to add more pictures of Dal and its life, over the next few days. watch out for this space.